How to be unbeatable
Got through the first three games in Unbeatable Chess Lessons. It's an entertaining read. Some of the positions are over my head though.
Does anyone have any suggestions or comments for my first tourney? Someone told me to take a Sharpie and put my initials on the felt on the pieces as well as the board and clock. Anything else? It will be a four round eight hour tournament.
Challenges completed: 500
Average of all scores: 85
3 Comments:
I don't think putting your initials on the pieces is necessary. I've never heard of anyone having a chess set stolen at a tournament, though I wouldn't bring an expensive set to one. Putting your name on your clock is a good idea, though.
It's a good idea to have a snack bar or something with you in case you have a long game. It's hard to think when you're hungry (or when you're too full, so eat light).
While it's usually best to stay sitting at the board as much as possible during the game, a short brisk walk to get the blood moving at a critical point (when the endgame begins, for instance, or just before the onset of time pressure) can help your concentration. A little exercise between rounds is helpful, too.
If you win a piece, beware at your next moves. Being euforic is very dangerous. Most mistakes are made in an euforic mood. The same holds true for making a blunder. After you make one often you make a series of bad moves. Because you are mumbling to yourself. Being sharp in those situations is really very difficult, but can definitely pay off if you manage to stay calm.
You know my record, so take what I say with a grain of salt. Play the board. Don't worry about who's across from you. I wore a baseball hat and snugged it down tight so my only vision was the board and the elbows of my opponent. Ignore ratings. They don't mean anything. The only thing that matters are the pieces in front of you and the position. Most importantly, try and have fun even if you are losing. Good luck, good luck, good luck!
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